Emerging from the Pandemic: The Ongoing Importance of Counselor Self-Care

2 Hours | 2 CEs

This on-demand professional training program on Emerging from the pandemic: The Ongoing Importance of Counselor Self-Care is presented by Richard Yep, CAE, FASAE.

Our society is experiencing a pandemic and increased divisiveness, discrimination, and anxiety. As counselors, we are responsible for caring for ourselves and maintaining our self-care plan. To continue to do the excellent work required of a professional counselor, the element of self-care cannot be underestimated, as these issues impact counselors and those they serve.

Numerous books, articles, blogs, and conference presentations have addressed how counselors must care for themselves. To be successful in helping clients and students, professional counselors need to address the growing dilemma of burnout in the same way that flight attendants instruct us to use oxygen masks in case of an airplane emergency: put your mask on first before helping others.

Self-care is an essential factor in maintaining equilibrium and preventing burnout. To be most effective in our work, we should leverage a self-care plan with clear goals, strategies, and timelines. Having such a plan is necessary to stay inspired and motivated.

Counselors must take care of themselves at all stages of their careers. The early stages of counselor training are critical for developing a foundation of attentive self-care and professionalism. Later in their careers, counselors must continue caring for themselves to remain inspired and energized. For example, counselors must exercise and eat nutritiously, get enough sleep, and manage stress effectively.

This program takes a holistic approach to the various components of self-care. It also speaks to setting appropriate boundaries and finding meaning in life. Knowing how to recognize, address, and practice skills to prevent mental and physical exhaustion will give you a long, productive, and fulfilling career as a professional counselor